How to Identify Spanish Mackerel

To identify Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus maculatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsal side iridescent blue-green, fading to silvery on the flanks and belly. Distinctive elliptical brassy or yellowish spots (30-70) arranged in 3-5 irregular rows along the sides. The anterior portion of the first dorsal fin is dark.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Streamlined, fusiform body adapted for speed., Numerous small, elliptical brassy or yellowish spots on the sides., Lateral line gradually curving down towards the caudal peduncle., Absence of scales on the pectoral fin, unlike King Mackerel., First dorsal fin is dark anteriorly.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins, widely separated. The first dorsal fin has 17-19 spines, with the anterior portion being dark. The second dorsal fin has 17-20 soft rays, followed by 8-9 finlets.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, characteristic of fast-swimming pelagic fish.

Pectoral fin

Short, pointed pectoral fins, typically without scales.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 16-20 soft rays, followed by 7-9 finlets. Pelvic fins are small and located beneath the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Spots

   Look for numerous, distinct, elliptical brassy or yellowish spots on the sides. These spots are generally smaller and more numerous than those on Cero Mackerel.

2. 2

   Lateral Line

   Observe the lateral line, which gradually curves downwards towards the caudal peduncle, without the sharp dip seen in King Mackerel.

3. 3

   First Dorsal Fin

   The anterior portion of the first dorsal fin is distinctly dark or black, a key identifier.

4. 4

   Pectoral Fin Scales

   Spanish Mackerel typically lack scales on their pectoral fins, a feature that helps distinguish them from King Mackerel.

5. 5

   Size

   Generally smaller than King Mackerel, with adults typically ranging from 1 to 5 kg (2 to 11 lbs) and up to 90 cm (35 inches) in length.

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